“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43: 18-19 (NIV).
How many of you know letting go can sometimes be tough, but in the book of Isaiah we are reminded that God wants us to let go of the yesterdays to see the new things He has in store for us today! When people or relationships have a way of disappointing us, I remind myself of Jesus and Joseph’s story. They both suffered betrayal and great disappointment from those closest to them. If we are all honest, we all have been betrayed in some form or another.
Jesus endured excruciating physical and emotional pain on the cross, a sacrifice depicted in Isaiah 53:5. “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his stripes, we are healed.” This verse encapsulates the depth of suffering Jesus willingly embraced for humanity’s sake. His crucifixion, as depicted in Luke 23:33-34, reveals Jesus praying for forgiveness for those crucifying him, demonstrating his divine love and compassion even amidst agony: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” This act of forgiveness amid suffering exemplifies the redemptive nature of Jesus’ sacrifice, offering salvation to all who believe in him, as emphasized in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Through his pain and death on the cross, Jesus provided redemption for all mankind, offering a path to salvation and reconciliation with God.
Joseph’s journey was also one of pain and redemption. It poignantly captured how he was sold into slavery by his own brothers, Joseph faced years of hardship and injustice. Yet, through divine providence, he rose to become a powerful ruler in Egypt. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph reflects on his tumultuous past, declaring, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” This verse encapsulates Joseph’s recognition of God’s sovereignty over his suffering and his ultimate purpose in preserving his family. Despite enduring betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment, Joseph’s steadfast faith and obedience to God’s plan led to the salvation of his family during the famine. His forgiveness toward his brothers, as seen in Genesis 45:5, demonstrates his ability to overcome personal pain for the greater good: “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Through Joseph’s story, we witness how God can use even the most painful circumstances for His redemptive purposes, bringing hope and salvation to those who trust Him.
Through my own story of betrayal and pain, God has also assured me according to Romans 8:28 “All things are working together for the good of those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” I believe God will use my story to bring hope and healing to countless others, providing them with my own unique perspective, a deeper empathy, and a greater spirit of resilience that will allow me to connect with and uplift those who are also hurting.
Father,
May you grant me the grace to overcome my personal pain for the greater good just as Joseph! In Jesus Name! Amen.